With the official start of summer just kicking off this past weekend comes the oft-discussed debate over bug-repellent sprays vs. bug-repellent wipes.

With the constant threats of the West Nile virus and Lyme disease on the rise, many people are gambling their positions.

Adding to these major concerns is the simple fact that insects carry bacteria and with insect bites come insect-borne diseases.

Although, the average illness, so to speak, can only culminate in an uncomfortable rash or skin irritation. So the thought of spraying your kids in a daily chemical mist can be just as uncomfortable.

I, for one, perk up like Pavlov’s dog when I hear the sliding door open anytime after 5 pm This is followed by a “drill sergeant” type of questioning of my sons; “Where are you going?” “Did you put on bug spray?” No. “Go back and assume position!”

This is followed by a two minute spray of any exposed skin, behind the neck and under shirts on my sons stomach and back.

They usually wince and so do I. My face is one of smug satisfaction, that in just a few hours, I’ve outwitted all the mosquitoes in my immediate area.

My kids, on the other hand, walk outside in a temporary mess, depending on what products we’ve used.

In the past, I have tried sprays, lotions, and oils to keep my kids from becoming food for mosquitoes and ticks.

Lately, I have recently become a fan of bug repellent wipes. The wipes are compact and can easily fit in my pocket or purse, so when we’re not home, there isn’t that real sense of urgency to get to our destination without the little extra worry.

Still, many of my friends agree that they would like to limit their children’s exposure to potentially toxic chemicals.

So i decided to take a look at the pros and cons of bug repellent sprays vs. bug repellent wipes.

These are the advantages of why you should use an insect repellent spray

• Sprays have more options including DEET, soy-based bite blockers, lemon oil, and eucalyptus oil.
• Protection can last up to 90 minutes per use
• It can be used in children older than 6 years.
• May be fragrance-free for people with a sensitivity to smell

Here Are The Cons Of Why You Should Avoid Bug Repellent Sprays

• Some natural oils such as citronella and peppermint may be less effective.
• Depending on the brand, you may need to reapply every 30 to 90 minutes.
• Some oils can be toxic if accidentally ingested through an aerosol.
• Sprays containing more than 30% DEET can be toxic to children and pets.

These are the advantages of why you use insect repellent wipes

• Insect repellent wipes are individually wrapped. One package usually covers a small child
• TSA friendly. You can bring wipes to a vacation destination instead of using questionable local products.
• Contains much less than 30% DEET per individual packet
• Does not spill or drip
• You can work up to 2 hours per application

These are the cons of why you should avoid insect repellent wipes

• Adults may need up to two wipes for complete coverage.
• Reapplication required after swimming or any water sport.
• Sold in smaller quantities, from 3 to 48 packs
• Not recommended for children under 2 months
• May cause skin irritation in some people.

So how will you personally weigh the risk of insects this summer? Will you base your decision on the chemicals or the lack thereof?

Will you stick with the all-natural versions of bug repellants and reapply them frequently? Perhaps you have decided to limit the time you spend outdoors this summer.

What about your summer vacation? Are mosquitoes the same everywhere? Will your current bug spray work wherever you are?

These are valid questions to ask yourself every time you scratch that spot on the back of your knee.

Testing products early in the season to determine what works best for your family is a great option. If you find a spray that you like and works well for your family, you may want to find out if there is a travel size that meets federal TSA regulations, so you can take it on vacation with you.

Even if smaller sizes aren’t available, you can easily pack your favorite bug spray in your suitcase and expect your luggage to arrive at your destination when you do.

Call me “Nervous Nancy,” but when it comes to my kids, I tend to double down on protection when I’m out of my usual routine.

So my carry-on will contain bug repellent wipes, as well as a bottle of our favorite repellent spray.

I just like the convenience of “moms little bag of tricks” and being prepared for any eventuality, including the fact that even when I travel within the US, many stores and chains don’t carry the same products.

Natural bug sprays and wipes aren’t the only non-toxic ways you can fight mosquito and other insect bites. But nowadays, you have many options. I would love to hear your thoughts.

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